How Environmentally Friendly Asphalt Affects Your Carbon Footprint

November 13, 2018
Through decades of harmful toxins seeping into our air and the depletion of critical environmental resources, it is imminent that you are aware of your carbon footprint, and what you can do to reduce it. There are many industrial factors affecting the quality of our environment, however, many companies, engineers and investors are creating major energy-saving strides. By opting for an asphalt driveway, parking lot or road you are making a conscious effort against the combustion of carbon emissions.

WHAT IS YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT

A carbon footprint is defined as: “the amount of greenhouse gases and specifically carbon dioxide [CO2] emitted by something (such as a person’s activities or a product’s manufacture and transport) during a given period” (Merriam-webster) In other words, the amount of carbon dioxide emitted into the air during regular activities such as driving a car, heating your house, and more is a direct reflection of your carbon footprint. For years damage was occurring to our environment without us recognizing the detrimental consequences. With greenhouse gases like CO2 releasing into our air global warming changes are on the rise. However, there have been countless steps in utilizing more energy efficient strategies throughout all industries. On a daily basis, we partake in choices and practices that affect our carbon footprint. A few adjustments that could be made to reduce your environmental effect include: Carpool to work and other events
  • Switch to energy efficient appliances in your home
  • Lower your water usage
  • Reuse and recycle
Being consciously aware of the steps you take every day will progress a more carbon neutral environment. When choosing a new dishwasher or fridge, opt for the energy saving technology, or pick-up a pellet stove to heat your home versus cranking up the thermostat. These little steps make a big difference. Another conscious effort would be choosing sustainable, environmentally friendly material and construction for your next project.

HOW IS ASPHALT ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY

There are numerous benefits of an asphalt residential driveway or a business lot. The endless advantages include increased curb appeal for your home or storefront, long lasting durability equipped for all environments, and of course sustainability. Asphalt pavement is also a great option in reducing your carbon footprint. With many more people striving for a better environment and progression towards cleaner air, asphalt pavement for your driveways and lots is a clear choice. Technological advances are paving the way for more energy efficient equipment, methods, and material. Roadbuilders encourages asphalt surfaces because of sustainability, durability and quality. Here are a few ways asphalt is environmentally friendly and can help reduce your carbon footprint

CONSERVES ENERGY

Many people assume the construction industry and paving process is extremely harmful to the environment, however, asphalt saves a lot of energy. It uses a significantly less amount of energy in comparison to other paving projects. Laying down a new asphalt surface takes overall less time than other construction work, and the surface continues to help reduce greenhouse gas emission throughout its lifespan. Equipment used during the paving process has progressive engineered technology which furthers the reduction of harmful gas emission.

PROTECTS WATER QUALITY

As seen on countless roads, parking lots and driveways, water runnage can cause significant damage and also breakdown toxic material causing it to seep into its surroundings. These factors are dangerous and if ignored can have some serious effects on the environment. A major sustainable advantage of asphalt surfaces is its ability to work in junction with nearby bodies of water, and even reservoirs. Because of the asphalt’s impermeable material, you avoid toxic leaks and eroded areas. Asphalt has the ability to have a porous makeup allowing water to pass through without picking up any harmful toxins.

FULLY RECYCLABLE, REDUCE REPAIRS & REUSE MATERIALS

Asphalt is known to be one of the most recycled materials in the world and the industry has been extremely environmentally conscious for decades now. The paving is always recycled and reused countless times, gaining durability along the way and sustaining a healthy environment. Many times the roads you drive on every day are composed of asphalt built off of material first paved years ago. By incorporating this recyclable life cycle, asphalt pavements help reduce waste across the board. A big factor in the sustainable benefits of an asphalt surface is the reduction of physical repairs. With many other paved surfaces constant repair, resurfacing and replacement is needed. With an asphalt road, lot or driveway the durability is extended and therefore creates years of use before major maintenance is required. Even when the time comes that your lot may need a repair, asphalt patching and crack repair is an easy project exerting minimal energy and time.

ROADBUILDERS SUPPORTS SUSTAINABILITY

Reduce, reuse and recycle are the three R’s of recycling and sustaining a better environment. Asphalt pavement holds true to all three and in count helps reduce everyone’s carbon footprint. Our Roadbuilders team in Nashville is proud to provide an environmentally friendly option for your new business parking lot or residential driveway.

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